Ivy Gardens’ Latest Video ‘Eye Witness’ Combines Sludge with Storytelling

Niagara Falls’ Ivy Gardens emerge with their latest single and accompanying music video, “Eye Witness,” offering a glimpse into their upcoming second album titled “Death of Don Valley,” scheduled for release on August 29th, 2025, through Paper Cut Recordings. With a runtime of under three minutes, “Eye Witness” encapsulates a maelstrom of rage, precision, and release, embodying the album’s somber themes and Ivy Gardens’ characteristic “dog-ass music,” a term affectionately coined by the band to encapsulate their heavy, sludge-infused sound.

Born from modest beginnings in a Princess Auto parking lot, Ivy Gardens initially sought to tackle Rush instrumentals and push the boundaries of heavy music. Following the success of their debut full-length album “Goon” in 2024, the band ventures into more experimental and dark territories with “Death of Don Valley.” This concept album delves into decay, narrating the gradual demise of natural landscapes such as Toronto’s Don River, submerged under the weight of industry and time.

“Eye Witness” delves into a fictional storyline from two distinct perspectives: one grappling with violence, the other enduring its aftermath. Although the piece stands out as one of the band’s most complex compositions, it remains grounded in raw immediacy and swiftness, encapsulating the album’s core theme of tension, unpredictability, and catharsis.

Providing insight into the track, the band shares, “Eye Witness is one of the most intricate and technical tracks on the album, delivered at breakneck speed. Clocking in at a concise 2 minutes and 50 seconds, its lyrics depict a double-homicide.”

Additionally, Ivy Gardens enthusiasts can anticipate an unparalleled live performance as the band embarks on a cross-Canada tour commencing on August 29th in St. Catharines, ON, and concluding in Victoria, BC on October 25th (tour dates listed below).

Drawing inspiration from a myriad of sources, Ivy Gardens’ musical influences span from progressive legends such as Rush, Yes, and King Crimson to sludge trailblazers like EYEHATEGOD and Iron Monkey. Their sonic landscape interweaves elements of stoner metal, sludge, math rock, and progressive rock, resulting in a unique and compelling sound that sets them apart in the music scene.